What makes Rarearth by Rare Earth notable?

Rarearth is notable for its commercial success, reaching number 11 on the Billboard 200 chart, reflecting the band's growing popularity in the late '70s. The album's blend of genres influenced subsequent artists in the funk and rock genres, showcasing Rare Earth's ability to innovate within their sound. Released in 1977, Rarearth marked Rare Earth's fifth studio album during a period of significant evolution in their sound, transitioning from garage rock roots to a more polished funk rock approach. This was also the band's first album released after their successful cover of 'Get Ready', which had propelled them into mainstream recognition.

Rarearth works well if you're into playful tracks for group enjoyment, upbeat energy for dance parties and short bursts of lively fun.

How many songs are on Rarearth?

Rarearth has 9 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Rarearth

Rare Earth · 1977

36 min · 9 tracks · progressive rock

A vibrant fusion of funk and rock, blending rhythmic grooves with soulful melodies and playful lyrics throughout.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Love Has Lifted Me — This opening track sets the tone with its uplifting melody and intricate instrumental arrangements, showcasing the band's signature blend of funk and rock.
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Is Your Teacher Cool? — With its infectious groove and playful lyrics, this track exemplifies the band's ability to merge humor with musicality, making it a standout moment on the album.
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Crazy Love — This song features a captivating chorus and rich harmonies that highlight the band's vocal prowess while maintaining their funky edge.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends funk and rock effectively but lacks standout compositions that elevate it beyond its peers.

What we noticed

The album opens with a strong groove in 'Love Has Lifted Me', establishing a rhythmic foundation that persists through several tracks.
Each song features layered instrumentation, often incorporating brass and percussion to enhance the funk-rock fusion.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

playful tracks for group enjoyment
upbeat energy for dance parties
short bursts of lively fun
feel-good vibes for sunny days

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, introspective sounds
seek deep, complex narratives

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1977, Rarearth marked Rare Earth's fifth studio album during a period of significant evolution in their sound, transitioning from garage rock roots to a more polished funk rock approach. This was also the band's first album released after their successful cover of 'Get Ready', which had propelled them into mainstream recognition.
Stylistic neighbors: Sly and the Family Stone· The Isley Brothers· Chicago